Twenty-five years ago today, we lost seven legends. They were doing what we all yearn to do- living a dream.

As they rose towards the unknown, they did not fear. They saw what their crafts namesake was, a Challenge. They saw this challenge and embraced it, they saw the adventure that awaited them and understood not only the risks, but the rewards.

They, along with all who came before them, and those who came after them, proved to us that we don't need a cape to reach the skies, just good old fashioned American hard work. The blood, sweat and tears that helped launch them onward will, as it always has, continue to help us in our future.

The dream of exploration and a better tomorrow does not discriminate either, that much was proven on that day. It does not see difference in skin color, gender or religion. Nor should anyone.

As we become ever more connected, more automated we lose a bit of ourselves. We lose that precious experience...that sense of wonder and amazement.

I truly hope that trend rescinds and we reach for our dreams with the drive and ambition we once had.

The men and women of the Challenger, Michael Smith, Dick Scobee, Judith Resnik, Ronald McNair, Ellison Onizuka, Gregory Jarvis, and Christa McAuliffe deserve at least that much.

This is not a eulogy, it is a message to all. It is a message that is engraved on a plaque at Launch Complex 34 at Kennedy Space Center, where three other explorers passed in search of the wonders of the unknown. It says "Ad Astra Per Aspera", which translated means "A Rough Road Leads To The Stars."

Meet your challenge. Follow your dreams, however hard they may be to attain.